International interest expected in Durrow sale

A pair of wonderful Dublin-made Gainsborough armchairs, a large early 19th century Chippendale hall lantern; a 19th century Dresden pen and ink stand; a Flemish alterpiece from the 15th century; an 18th-19th century cloisonne Guang or ritual vessel; a Dublin 1744 printing of the Life of Robinson Crusoe and a portrait by Sir John Lavery of Cardinal Hayes are among the lots to feature at three days of sales at Sheppard’s in Durrow next week.

A 15th century portable altarpiece painted by an artist of the Flemish Primitive School will create international interest.

It is estimated at €80,000-€120,000. A 6.54 carat diamond ring is estimated at €30,000-€50,000, the cloisonne Guang is estimated at €20,000-€30,000, a 15th century Flemish Book of Hours is estimated at €40,000-€60,000 and Robinson Crusoe is estimated at €350-€500.

The sale includes contents from All Hallows in Dublin, but not the letters written by Jacqueline Kennedy to Fr Joseph Leonard, which were withdrawn. Viewing for this auction of more than 1,500 lots gets underway at 10am today and runs from 10am to 5pm on each of the next three days.

An auction of antiques, decorative and Asian art starts at 10.30am on Tuesday.

On Wednesday Sheppards will offer five centuries of fine art in a carefully chosen evening sale of 69 lots which starts at 7pm.

Books, manuscripts and maps will be offered on Thursday at 10.30am.